Overview

• The proclamation requires employers to pay $100,000 each year per H-1B application, with officials saying the payment structure over the three-year term is still being worked out with Homeland Security.
• A new investor tier was announced that would fast-track visas for individuals paying $1 million or for companies paying $2 million, while a separate $5 million “Platinum” option promises extended U.S. stays and tax advantages, with elements potentially needing congressional approval.
• Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said major firms were briefed and support the fee, though leading tech companies largely declined to comment after the announcement.
• Immigration attorneys and policy analysts argue such a steep fee exceeds statutory cost-recovery authority for visa charges, signaling likely court challenges and further rulemaking.
• In a parallel push on Capitol Hill, Senator Jim Banks introduced the American Tech Workforce Act to raise the H-1B wage floor to $150,000, end the OPT program, and replace the lottery with a highest-bidder model.